Agreed. I'm contemplating a third.
That will be a nice splurge, I hope you're able to get there some day. They are a reasonably priced high-end brush. I don't think you'll be disappointed in either the handle or knot.
Want to dive in to higher end badger
- Thread starter zed117
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I'm constantly toying with the idea of downsizing my collection. I actually have fewer brushes now than I did at this time last year, so I am making progress. As downsizing continues, the only brushes I don't plan on selling or trading are my Varlets and a pair of Black Eagles. I have tried a ton of brushes, but I think those two brands are the top of the heap for two band brushes right now.
It's a tossup between the two. My 2 cents...overall, the Varlet handle shapes are more comfortable than the Black Eagle handle shapes. Also, the Varlet knots (specifically the "high density-traditional) are the best performing knots I've used thus far. The Varlet craftsmanship is superb.
Black Eagles are absolutely impeccably crafted. I don't think there's a brush maker on earth who can top BE's attention to detail, both in handles and knots. The handles are Paladin-quality, but are turned by hand (Paladin uses a CNC lathe). The knots are extra super dense fans. They are stuffed with hair. Much more hair than anyone else is stuffing into knots. It can be an acquired taste. I prefer the Varlet knots more, but like the BE for a change of pace.
Both are very high end items. The Varlets used to be less expensive (comparable to Declarations) before going the custom order route. Now they are quite expensive, but are much easier obtained than they used to be (though you'll wait a while for it to be made). Black Eagles, on the other hand, are extremely hard to obtain. They are made in very small numbers and they sell out instantly. Secondary market prices can be nuts.
IMO, those two are the top of the heap if you appreciate top-level craftsmanship and are looking to dive in head first. Of course, there are many other great options that cost less and are easier to get (Declaration Grooming, Mozingo, Simpson, Shavemac, Paladin, etc.).
It's a tossup between the two. My 2 cents...overall, the Varlet handle shapes are more comfortable than the Black Eagle handle shapes. Also, the Varlet knots (specifically the "high density-traditional) are the best performing knots I've used thus far. The Varlet craftsmanship is superb.
Black Eagles are absolutely impeccably crafted. I don't think there's a brush maker on earth who can top BE's attention to detail, both in handles and knots. The handles are Paladin-quality, but are turned by hand (Paladin uses a CNC lathe). The knots are extra super dense fans. They are stuffed with hair. Much more hair than anyone else is stuffing into knots. It can be an acquired taste. I prefer the Varlet knots more, but like the BE for a change of pace.
Both are very high end items. The Varlets used to be less expensive (comparable to Declarations) before going the custom order route. Now they are quite expensive, but are much easier obtained than they used to be (though you'll wait a while for it to be made). Black Eagles, on the other hand, are extremely hard to obtain. They are made in very small numbers and they sell out instantly. Secondary market prices can be nuts.
IMO, those two are the top of the heap if you appreciate top-level craftsmanship and are looking to dive in head first. Of course, there are many other great options that cost less and are easier to get (Declaration Grooming, Mozingo, Simpson, Shavemac, Paladin, etc.).
Hannah's Dad
I Can See Better Than Bigfoot.
No, I sold them both, David.
I have a large Vulfix silvertip I’m willing to part with if you’re interested, PM me.
The Varlets are about $500? I am happy with my declaration grooming that I got through the knotting service. Knot and handle for about $200.
Space_Cadet
I don't have a funny description.
Another high quality brush-maker that deserves to be mentioned, in my opinion, is Brad Sears. I like his brushes.
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